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Gabriela Bryan and Miguel Pupo Claim Bells Beach Victories

4/12/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Bryan and Pupo Triumph

Gabriela Bryan of Hawaii won her fifth World Surf League championship at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in Australia in 2026, defeating reigning champion Molly Picklum.
Brazilian Miguel Pupo won his first Bells trophy by edging Yago Dora in the men's final, scoring 15.60 to Dora's 13.90.
Both Gabriela Bryan and Miguel Pupo celebrated their first wins at this event, marking a major start to the 2026 world tour.

Summary

Pupo Claims Championship

Miguel Pupo won his second Championship Tour title at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, defeating Yago Dora in the final and scoring 8.10 in the final moments.
Dora needed a 7.88 to retain the yellow jersey and fell short despite a strong semifinal performance.
The next event in the 2026 tour is the Margaret River Pro, starting April 16, 2026.

History

Historical Context

Surfing, with roots tracing back to ancient Polynesian cultures, gained popularity in the U.S. after being introduced by Hawaiian princes in 1885. The inaugural World Surfing Championships in 1966 in San Diego marked a pivotal moment, establishing competitive surfing globally. This event laid the foundation for future competitions, reflecting surfing's cultural significance and economic impact on coastal communities.

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Bryan and Pupo Triumph

Gabriela Bryan of Hawaii won her fifth World Surf League championship at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach in Australia in 2026, defeating reigning champion Molly Picklum.
Brazilian Miguel Pupo won his first Bells trophy by edging Yago Dora in the men's final, scoring 15.60 to Dora's 13.90.
Both Gabriela Bryan and Miguel Pupo celebrated their first wins at this event, marking a major start to the 2026 world tour.

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